Wagoners Create Fund to Support Student-Faculty Research

SIOUX FALLS - Former Augustana President Ralph Wagoner and his wife, Susie, have established The Ralph and Susie Wagoner Student-Faculty Research Project Endowment Fund.

The Wagoners say one of the strengths of an Augustana educational experience is the opportunity for students to work hand-in-hand with an exceptional group of faculty. “It is our hope that this fund will grow and, at the same time, encourage others to create additional avenues for nurturing student/faculty involvement.”

Students apply for funding up to $1,000 for projects that may include, but not limited to primary research, artistic exploration, travel, summer work stipend, or publication. All projects must include specific expected outcomes and a faculty mentor.

“It is our hope that this fund will grow and, at the same time, encourage others to create additional avenues for nurturing student/faculty involvement.”

Ralph and Susie Wagoner

The first student recipients are Amy Hulstein, Malerie Mertz, and Abby Thompson.

Hulstein is a senior from Hull, Iowa. She is majoring in history and government/international affairs. She is the daughter of Linda and Robert Hulstein and will work with Dr. Peter Schotten, Professor of Government/International Affairs.

Mertz is a senior from Chamberlain, S.D. She is a music education major and the daughter of Julie and Tim Mertz.

Thompson is a senior from Elkhorn, Neb. She is majoring in music education and all-grades education. She is the daughter of Leann and Scot Thompson.

Mertz and Thompson will be mentored by Dr. Lisa Grevlos, Associate Professor of Music.

After their projects are completed, the recipients will share their findings with the campus by presentation, publication, or performance.